Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells set on a framework that use sunlight as a source of energy to generate direct current power, which is then converted to AC via an inverter. Wafer-based crystalline silicon cells or thin-film cells are used in the majority of modules. The sorts of Panels, as well as their major characteristics and usefulness, are described below.
1. Solar Panels using Monocrystalline Crystals
Each solar PV cell in these panels is built of a single silicon crystal, which is why they are called “mono.” Their dark PV cells with rounded corners distinguish them. They create more units of power than polycrystalline panels because they have a greater conversion efficiency. Monocrystalline panels generate more energy, so they’re a smart choice if you’re short on space. These panels also have a higher capacity than polycrystalline panels, which have a maximum capacity of 350 Wp.
These solar panels are the most well-known and commonly utilised panels in the industry today, with applications in industries, commercial, and residential settings.
Monocrystalline is available in PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) technology. PERC is a new technology that improves efficiency in a variety of ways. The PERC aids in the absorption of sunlight from the frontal area, while the reflected sunlight reaches the rear surface.
In total, it improves the efficiency of a few solar panels from 20% to 22%. The PERC further improves high-temperature and low-light performance, ensuring a higher and longer-lasting power output.
Monocrystalline solar panels have the following characteristics:
- They outperform polycrystalline in terms of efficiency.
- Because each panel has a power output of 540-650 Wp, they take up less space.
- They have the potential to work for more than 25–30 years.
- Give efficiency rates of 22 to 24 per cent.
2. Solar Panels using Polycrystalline Crystals
Multiple silicon particles are moulded and mixed in these solar panels, giving them a blue colour. Solar panels that contain many crystals (Poly) of silicon in a single PV cell are known as polycrystalline or multicrystalline.
They are less expensive than monocrystalline, making them ideal for applications such as street lighting, traffic lights, gardens, and farms. Also, where space is limited and plant size is modest, Polycrystalline should be chosen because it saves money.
Polycrystalline solar panels have the following characteristics:
- They are less expensive than monocrystalline crystals.
- They have a lower heat tolerance, which means they perform worse at high temperatures than monocrystalline solar panels.
- Temperature changes have an impact on its longevity.
- In low-light situations, it’s less effective.
3. Flexible Panels or Thin-Film Solar Cells
A thin-film solar cell (TFSC) is a second-generation solar cell manufactured by depositing one or more thin layers of photovoltaic material over a substrate such as glass, plastic, or metal.
These solar panels appear tiny because of the utilisation of small, thin photovoltaic cells, which helps to make them sturdy and lightweight. When compared to standard solar panels, it has a 12-16 per cent efficiency and is very easy to install. They’re employed on rooftops, solar farms, street lights, and a variety of other places.
Thin-film solar panels have the following advantages:
- These panels can be used in a variety of situations where regular panels are problematic to install, including on a curved roof or on boats.
- They are less in weight because they are not supported by a frame.
- Solar panels made of thin-film are less efficient and have lower power capabilities than monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels.
- They also necessitate extra room. Because of the technology’s low space economy, the expenses of support structures and cables are expensive.
- Thin-film solar panels decay more quickly than mono and poly solar panels, thus their warranty is only approximately 10-15 years.
Solar systems that are integrated into the building envelope and are part of building components such as façades, roofs, or windows are known as building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). A BIPV system is a dual-purpose component of the building skin that transforms solar energy into electricity while also providing building envelope thermal insulation, noise reduction, daylight illumination, and improving the structure’s aesthetics.
Solar panels with BIPV technology have the following features:
- Buildings are given a high-end price and a futuristic appearance.
- It has the potential to last for more than 30 years.
- Electricity bills are reduced.
- Infrastructure materials and other costs are saved.
Which panel should you pick?
Are you torn between Poly and Mono panels and want to know which is the best option for you? We are here to assist you in getting the greatest technology at an accessible price.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Monocrystalline Solar vs Polycrystalline Solar
| Monocrystalline Solar | Polycrystalline Solar |
| They have a higher efficiency than Polycrystalline | They are cheaper than monocrystalline.Have a lower heat tolerance i.e. they perform less than monocrystalline solar panels in high temperatures |
| Monocrystalline solar panels have black-coloured solar cells made of a single silicon crystal, and they usually have higher efficiency. | Polycrystalline solar panels have blue-coloured cells made of multiple silicon crystals melted together. |
| They can easily work for more than 25 – 30 years. | Its lifespan is affected by an increase in temperature |
| They require less space as each panel range from 540-650 Wp. | Lesser effective in low light conditions. |
Why Choose G8Solar?
At G8Solar, we provide you with affordable rooftop solar panel solutions for your offices, industries, commercial spaces and residences. Get all your solar solutions hassle-free in no given time.